Occupational rehabilitation

Occupational rehabilitation is the process of restoring function to injured workers so they can return to work. Rehabilitation professionals assess the needs of the person and the demands of the workplace in order to develop a plan of action to get the employee back to work that is suitable to him/her. Depending on the type of injury, the individual may have to be trained in a new line of work.

A number of professionals are involved in the practice of occupational rehabilitation. Physiatrists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, chiropractors and massage therapists all assist in this venture. Some of the problems treated by these clinicians are amputations, arthritis, back pain, spinal cord injuries, work-related injuries and a host of others. A physiatrist attends to the needs of people who have gained weight and find it difficult to exercise. Patients recovering from a stroke or those who have difficulty performing to their optimum in the workplace also benefit from the services of this type of doctor.

Increased computer usage has resulted in a growing number of people seeking occupational rehabilitation because of carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis. Other common work injuries are spine disorders especially among those who work with heavy machinery. Physiatrists, physiotherapists and occupational therapists work together to improve the employee's posture (standing as well as sitting) the ergonomics of the work place and the way the individual performs his/her duties. Many problems like shoulder, back and neck pain, which were believed to be chronic, have been improved by making adjustments in workplace ergonomics and posture.

Proper positioning during typing, filing and other office duties can go a long way in alleviating worker injuries and complaints, not to mention increasing productivity. Robert Werner, MD, associate professor of physical medicine and rehabilitation at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor says, "Proper positioning, posture, equipment and education are key elements to a successful ergonomic program." He adds, "And it isn't necessary to spend a fortune redesigning your office space to provide relief." His counterpart Steve Geiringer at Wayne University in Detroit, Michigan advises, "Short, frequent breaks such as standing for about 30 seconds every 20 or 30 minutes provides a necessary break for your muscles." One study followed workers who were moved from a sitting to a standing position throughout the day. Seventy percent said they liked the flexibility of the sit/stand option and reported a reduction in arm, shoulder, back and neck pain. American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.

Occupational rehabilitation is a necessary adjunct to the broad spectrum of health care. By taking advantage of this service, employees can prevent loss of wages due to injuries and can enjoy a more productive working environment. Employers can preserve their bottom line by avoiding decreased man-hours and medical expenses. Either way everyone benefits.